Careers in Finance in South Africa
Finance and banking is a major, well-paid sector concentrated in Gauteng and the Western Cape. It spans banking, accounting, auditing, insurance, investment and financial administration, with employers including the major banks, insurers, auditing firms and the JSE-listed corporates.
Typical salary range
R8,000 – R100,000+ per month (clerk to qualified professional)
Qualifications & requirements
- Bookkeeping and finance-clerk roles need matric with Accounting or Maths.
- Professional routes need a relevant degree plus SAICA (CA), SAIPA or CIMA articles.
- Banking roles range from matric-level tellers to degree-level analysts.
Entry-level routes
Bank teller, finance clerk and debtors/creditors clerk roles are common entry points, alongside bank and finance learnerships and graduate programmes. Trainee accountant (articles) positions are the route to becoming a CA(SA).
Career progression
Careers progress from clerk to bookkeeper, accountant, financial manager and financial director. Qualified CAs, actuaries and investment professionals are among the best-paid roles in the country.
Finance salary guides
Helpful guides
Companies on Edubuzz
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications do I need for a finance career?
Entry roles need matric with Accounting or Maths. Professional roles require a relevant degree plus articles through SAICA (to become a CA), SAIPA or CIMA.
Are there finance learnerships in South Africa?
Yes. The major banks, insurers and auditing firms run finance and banking learnerships and graduate programmes every year, which are a strong entry route for matriculants and graduates.
Which finance jobs pay the most?
Chartered Accountants (CA(SA)), actuaries, investment analysts and financial managers are among the best-paid finance professionals, especially in Johannesburg and Cape Town.